Technician A says that all automatic transmission fluids (ATF) are interchangeable. Technician B says that new ATF should be pink in color. Who is right?

Automatic transmission fluids (ATF) are not interchangeable, which means that various types of ATF are formulated to meet specific requirements of different vehicle manufacturers and transmission designs. Different formulations can affect the transmission's performance, shifting quality, and overall longevity. For instance, some ATFs may include friction modifiers, while others might be designed for specific temperatures or performance characteristics. Mixing these fluids can lead to serious malfunctions and damage within the transmission system.

Regarding the color of new ATF, while many modern formulations are indeed designed to be pink or reddish, not all ATFs must be this color. Some may be clear, amber, or have green hues, depending on the type and manufacturer. The color of ATF can indeed change over time, especially as it degrades and picks up contaminants, but the initial color is not a definitive indicator of whether the fluid is appropriate for use.

Thus, neither technician is correct in their statements, leading to the conclusion that both assertions are inaccurate. This highlights the importance of referring to the owner's manual and using the correct fluid specifications given by the manufacturer.